Chemical Process Engineer - Mining Operations

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Relocation assistance

Career development

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 in Rustenburg, North West, seeks a Chemical Process Engineer to optimize mineral processing and extraction operations on-site within a major mining group.

You will develop, refine, and scale chemical processes, monitor performance, conduct root-cause analyses, and collaborate with metallurgists, geologists and plant operators to meet production targets while maintaining safety and environmental compliance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering or Metallurgical Engineering.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant mining/industrial experience.
• Experience in process design, scale-up and troubleshooting.
• Familiarity with mineral processing techniques (leaching, flotation, solvent extraction).

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and optimize chemical processes for mineral beneficiation and extraction.
• Monitor process performance, conduct root cause analysis for deviations, and implement corrective actions.
• Collaborate with metallurgists, geologists and plant operators to achieve production targets.
• Prepare technical reports and operational guidelines; troubleshoot plant upsets.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Process design

Scale-up

Troubleshooting

Process control

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or Metallurgical Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the mining and resource extraction sector, is actively seeking a dedicated Chemical Process Engineer to join their operational team in Rustenburg, North West . This role is integral to optimizing the chemical processes involved in mineral processing and extraction, ensuring efficiency and sustainability. You will be hands‑on, working directly within our client's advanced facilities to troubleshoot, enhance, and implement chemical engineering solutions. This is a fantastic opportunity for an engineer eager to apply their skills in a challenging industrial environment, contributing directly to the success of a major resource company. The position requires a strong presence on-site to effectively manage and improve complex operational workflows.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and optimize chemical processes for mineral beneficiation and extraction.
• Monitor process performance, conduct root cause analysis for deviations, and implement corrective actions.
• Design and specify chemical dosing systems, flotation circuits, and hydrometallurgical processes.
• Conduct pilot plant trials and scale‑up studies for new process technologies.
• Ensure all operations comply with stringent safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with metallurgists, geologists, and plant operators to achieve production targets.
• Prepare technical reports, process documentation, and operational guidelines.
• Troubleshoot process upsets and provide immediate technical support to the plant floor.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement, cost reduction, and efficiency gains.
• Participate in capital project reviews and assist with the commissioning of new equipment.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or Metallurgical Engineering.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience, preferably within the mining or heavy industrial sector.
• Proven experience in process design, scale‑up, and operational troubleshooting.
• Familiarity with mineral processing techniques (e.g., leaching, flotation, solvent extraction).
• Strong knowledge of process control systems and instrumentation.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills, with a practical, hands‑on approach.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines in a plant environment.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills for effective team collaboration.
• Must be willing to work full‑time on‑site in Rustenburg, North West .
• Valid driver's license and ability to pass a medical examination.

Benefits

• Our client offers an attractive salary package, including a performance incentive bonus, comprehensive medical aid, and a retirement fund.
• Relocation assistance may be provided.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development, including specialized training courses and career advancement within the organization, are readily available.
• The role is based in Rustenburg , offering access to a range of local amenities and recreational activities.
• Employees benefit from working with a forward‑thinking company committed to operational excellence and employee well‑being.